Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos)

Honey Locust – Fast-Growing Tree with Formidable Thorns

Gleditsia triacanthos, the Honey Locust, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree native to central North America. It is known for its formidable, branched thorns on the trunk and branches (thornless cultivars exist). The fine, fern-like, pinnately compound leaves cast dappled shade. Inconspicuous greenish flowers are followed by long, twisted, sweet-tasting seed pods. It tolerates drought, salt, compaction, and urban pollution, making it a common street tree. The species can be aggressive.

Taxonomic Details